After GTAIV I peronally wouldn't call it a "game of this status" any more. Sorry but I think that game was a huge step backwards for the franchise and arguably the most over rated game this generation.

If anything I am holding off any and all hype until we have a lot more information about this iteration in the series.

This is just my opinion of course but feel I'm not in the minority on this.

I don't think GTA IV was a huge step backward for Rockstar, because where else could they go with the franchise? To me GTA IV is the GTA game where rockstar truly came into their own with a mature narrative and a gritty portrayal of organized crime and it's personal consequences for the games's protagonist. I felt that they were able to effectively combine that dark, gritty story and narrative element with their trademark toungue-in-cheek satire of modern western culture. I've always been a fan of the GTA series for it's unparalleled open-world action and exploration, but GTA IV was the first game where I actually felt invested in the story's characters.

I am aware that the tone and realism of GTA IV was not a hit with everyone, and Rockstar's execution certainly wasn't flawless, but if they can find a way to trim some of the fat (like constant phone calls to go on social outings with friends/love interests), and add some of the elements that made the previous San Andreas game so much fun (like the customization and RPG elements) I think GTA V can be the game that bridges the gap between the ps2 era GTA's and GTAIV.

I know a lot of 14 year old N4G trolls would rather hump hookers and kill them in the back of a police car but I liked that they took a more mature approach with GTA IV. It's an exceptionally well-made game with a gritty and engaging atmosphere.

That's not to mention that anything worth complaining about in the main game was easily and effectively remedied with the DLC, which I thought was fantastically executed.

GTA V is worth the wait and I'd rather Rockstar do all that they can to make the game as fun and diverse as possible while also having a polished, well-told story and gameplay.

The way I see it is Rockstar released GTA 4 in April, RDR in May and LA Noire in May so I would guess a May release. Like MariaHelFutura said Rockstar don't announce games until they are nearly finished.

I think Q3 TO Q4 2012 any later than that dosnt seem pratical because the next generation consoles are coming late next year i would personally want it on ps4 or nextbox if it comes out any later than this year.

Has everyone forgot max Payne 3 is out in march MAX PAYNE 3 honestly I don't care if It got pushed back as long as max payne 3 is out this year I highly doubt rock star will bring 2 triple AAA titles in the same year